WATERFORD Minister of State Mary Butler has opened up about her battle with skin cancer.

As she returned to work following a short leave of absence, Minister Butler spoke to Damien Tiernan about undergoing a removal procedure for the cancer  on the bridge of her nose which, she said, was a result of over-exposure to the sun during her youth.

The FF Minister  says she's had huge support and prayers from people all over Waterford and indeed people all over the country.

Acknowledging it's been a very difficult few years for her family (her husband Michael has also battled prostate cancer in recent years), she also appealed to listeners who may have a concern about skin cancer to get themselves checked out.

The Minister also revealed she is waiting on tests results now to determine if all of the cancer has been successfully removed following her operation.

You can listen back to Minister Mary Butler's interview by clicking on the image above.